Ras-Samuel’s move from Ethiopia to Australia as a nine-year old was underscored by abuse, homelessness, and crime — he is now portraying his immigration story through a captivating performance at the Bowery Theatre.
Through The Hyena, a one-man show, Ras-Samuel brings his gripping journey to the stage.
Baring his heart, he shares the deep connection he has with his grandmother, and reflects on his identity.
“The Hyena is a story that is loosely based on my life experience,” Ras-Samuel said.
“It’s a love story between me and my grandmother.”
To develop the story, he worked in collaboration with dramaturg Bernadette Fam who he said was integral to making his ideas “sharp and strong for theatre”.
In the performance Ras-Samuel grapples with the representation of immigrants in the media and how certain stereotypes impact their sense of self.
He said the show is about finding the balance of how to coexist in the western world without forgetting your roots
He hopes that audience members will emerge from this one-act preview of the show feeling represented.
“I hope someone out there comes and sees this show and … can find the courage to share their stories.”
The Hyena will run at the Bowery Theatre in St Albans on March 14 to 15.
Details: creativebrimbank.com.au/the-hyena
Katya Ewing
